I did not use a foundation. If you look closely in the border, you an see the spools and thread and needle. The picture might not be big enough to see it clearly. I just loved it the spools for this particular quilt. It can be done without foundation but before you cut, be sure that you starch the squares before you cut. I did not have problems not using a foundation. It was totally fun! Thanks for your comments and if I were you, I would just jump right in. The only other advise is don't try to match your fabrics because that will make you crazy and they will look fine when they all get together.